In 2008, Aoki gained a victory over Alvarez by heel hook submission early in the first round. Alvarez has long talked about getting a rematch and Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney said in press release that this fight was years in the making.

"Ed asked me to secure this rematch for him years ago," said Rebney. "I promised I would, and now it’s official. Anytime you can put two of the world’s Top 10 Lightweights in the cage together at the pinnacle of their careers, you’ve got a very special fight on your hands – and that’s exactly what we will see."

For Alvarez it’s about redemption for his 2008 loss and his recent title loss to Michael Chandler, a fight many considered Bellator’s "Fight of the Year."

"This really is the perfect scenario for me," Alvarez said. "I need to redeem myself, and I can’t think of a better way to do it than avenging my loss to Aoki in 2008. I’m glad I’m able to get back on the horse and fight someone of his caliber right away."